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Free Mammograms

Local Radiologists and SVMHS Team Up For Breast Cancer Awareness Month

"Physicians for Early Detection" project provides screening mammograms at no cost to patients in need

SALINAS, CA, October 16, 2012: Radiologists practicing at the Nancy Ausonio Mammography Center announced they are donating their time and expertise to provide screening mammograms at no cost to women in need. The physicians have teamed up with the Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System to provide 31 no-cost mammograms for low-income women—one mammogram for each day of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The project was created two years ago as a way to reach out to community women in need who might otherwise go without this vital service. The American Cancer Society reports that other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer for women. As with most diseases, early detection is the key to successful intervention. Unfortunately, some women are forced to put off important medical services like mammograms for financial reasons.

The program, called Physicians for Early Detection, aims to change that reality for 31 women this month. Women who qualify as low-income and are interested in this program should contact their physician, who can refer them for a free screening at the Nancy Ausonio Mammography Center.

The Nancy Ausonio Mammography Center utilizes state-of-the-art technologies including digital mammography to ensure crystal clear, accurate images. The spacious Center features four mammography rooms, three ultrasound suites—one specially-equipped for ultrasound-guided biopsies—a dedicated room for computer-aided biopsies, and changing rooms with lockers, all in a soothing, comfortable environment. Salinas Valley Memorial also offers the only breast MRI diagnostic capabilities on the central coast, with an MRI that is pink, commemorating the fight against breast cancer.